SOLUTION: If the difference of two brothers is 4 years and the product of their ages is 221. Find the ages of the two brothers.

Algebra ->  Quadratic Equations and Parabolas -> SOLUTION: If the difference of two brothers is 4 years and the product of their ages is 221. Find the ages of the two brothers.      Log On


   

Question 1022151: If the difference of two brothers is 4 years and the product of their ages is 221. Find the ages of the two brothers.
Found 2 solutions by josgarithmetic, addingup:
Answer by josgarithmetic(39618) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
system%28y-x=4%2Cxy=221%29
You will form a quadratic equation in one variable, solve, and determine the value of the other variable.

You can also try to factorize 221, but common techniques for this will not be too obvious. Three digit product - look for some lower prime numbers and try a division....

13 and 17 as other tutor already posted.

Answer by addingup(3677) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
x-y = 4
xy = 221
factor 221 and you end up with two prime numbers:
221 = 13*17 and
4 = 17-13
We have the correct answer.